Category: Tack

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Airbag Safety Jackets For Equestrian Riding: All You Wanted To Know

Helite Safety Airbag Zip'In

Airbag Safety Jackets (vests, long sleeve jackets and show jackets) have become quite popular this year. We had brought a few in before prior to this season. However, with the upcoming WEF circuit, we have noticed that there is an uptick in the demand for these jackets.

If you are in the market for one and want some questions answered, you have come to the right place. In this post, we will attempt to answer the most frequently asked questions about the fit, selection, technology and maintenance of these new systems.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the airbag system work?

First, it is impotant to understand the components of the airbag safety jacket/vest technology. There are 2 major components: the Airbag Shell Jacket (outer) and the Helite Airbag Zip’in (inner). The Helite Airbag Zip’In connects to the outer shell .

Do I need to buy both the outer jacket and inner Helite Airbag Zip’in?

Yes. The inner Helite Airbag Zip will inflate once the system is triggered.

Can I use my existing Helite Airbag Zip’In?

Yes, as long as your Helite Airbag Zip’in is functioning well.

How do I know whether my Helite Airbag Zip’In is operational and safe to use?

Bring it to a Helite dealer and ask them to inspect it. If you bring it to us, we will be glad to test it as well to make sure the inflation mechanism is operational.

How does the Helite Airbag Zip’In protect me compared to other brands?

There is some significant advantages to Helite’s technology versus other airbag systems.
First, it is a homogeneous airbag, i.e. one piece airbag that inflates all at once. Other airbag systems on the market do not offer a 1 piece airbag. Instead the airbag is divided into 2 or more sections. This leads to off-time deployment, where one section of the airbag may deploy later than others.
Secondly, Helite is the only airbag solution that provides full protection from the neck to the tailbone.

What about different brands, DadaSport versus Oscar and Gabrielle?

Jackets from DadaSport and Oscar and Gabrielle are both compatible with the Helite Airbag Zip’In. The DadaSport styling is more fitted than Oscar and Gabrielle. The underlying technology is the same for both jackets. They connect to the saddle with the same mechanism.

How exactly do the airbag safety jackets work?

Dada Sport Sleeveless Training Safety Airbag Vest

What parts of the body does the airbag protect?

Helite Safety Airbag Zip'In

What makes Helite Airbags the best for protection?

Dada Sport Sleeveless Training Safety Airbag Vest

Do the Airbag Jackets look and feel bulky?

Airbag Jackets have come a long way in the last 2 years. The original version was bulky but the most recent versions are sleek and light.

What do I do after the airbag deploys?

Your jacket and airbag zip’in are both re-usable after a fall and deployment. All you need to do is to make sure is to replace the CO2 cartridge. Remove the spent cartridge and replace it with a new cartridge.

What size cartridge do I need?

For all adult sizes, (XS through XXL), you will need the 60 cc cartridge. For Child Large size, you will need 50 cc cartridge.

What is the warranty on the Helite Airbag?

Standard warranty is 2 years. However, you can extend that warranty (for free) by registering your purchase on Helite’s website. Here is the registration link:
https://my.helite.com/register

Why do I need an airbag jacket?

Airbag Jackets are safety equipment. Think of them in the same context as your helmet. If a piece of equipment has the potential to protect you from severe injury, why not? Today, some of the world’s top riders compete in the airbag safety jackets, including Martin Fuchs.

What is the difference between Helite Prestige, Helite Airshell Gillet?

Essentially, these are all training vests manufactured by Helite. The Helite Zip’In can be connected to these vests. The Prestige is the sportier model of the training vest whereas the Gillet is more classic and traditional.

How do I check my size in the Helite models?


How to measure?
Measure according to the graphic below. The sizing is unisex. The chart below is in Centimeters (cms).

Size Chart Table for Helite Airbag ZipInHow to measure for Helite Airbag ZipIn

Are the Helite Jackets unisex?

Yes, the Helite Vests are uni-sex. Please check the size chart above to correctly determine your size.

I still have more questions. Who can I contact?

You can always Contact Us via email or phone. We will be glad to help.

Conclusion

We hope we have helped clear up most of the questions/doubts. This is by no means, a complete list. Please ask your questions by commenting below.

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KASK Equestrian Helmets: What’s New for 2020?

KASK Equestrian continues on its quest to become the top choice for equestrians. Towards that goal, KASK is steadily making improvements to its line of existing helmets as well as introducing new models/designs that customers have been requesting.

KASK has already established a solid place in the equestrian helmet space in a relatively short time. By our estimates, it is in the top 3 brands for equestrian helmets. Given that the KASK Equestrian brand is only 5 years old, this is huge. Not only is the brand gained strong momentum, the products continue to shine. KASK is bringing their deep safety expertise to the equestrian helmet space.

Shine and Gloss (with Chrome)

The Pure Shine series of KASK Equestrian is new addition to the lineup. Pretty much both the Dogma Chrome Light and Dogma Star Lady helmet models now have their shiny cousins. Although underneath the shell, they are the same helmets, the look of the shiny vs. matte helmets is completely different. We are noticing a big wave of excitement towards the shiny helmets.

Rose Gold “EveryRose” Pink Gold (Limited Edition Trim)

Yes, it is that popular! The Rose Gold aka Pink Gold aka EveryRose is a special trim on all KASK Helmets. The exclusive “EveryRose” collection features the same KASK Helmets, but with a Rose Gold Trim. Whether it be Navy or Black, the Rose Gold trim adds another level of elegance and style to an already gorgeous helmet.

While these helmets are custom and take 8-10 weeks from order to delivery, your favorite tack store has them in stock. See below and check what is your favorite helmet. There is a helmet here for everyone, whether you do dressage or show jumping or both.

Larger Sizes For Star Lady coming soon!

For those of you that love the Star Lady Wide Brim Helmets from KASK but can not fit in the existing sizes (Sizes 6 1/2 through 7 3/8), there is great news!

In late February 2020, KASK plans to release the larger sizes in the Dogma Star Lady Wide Brim Helmet series. These new sizes cover 7 1/2 through 7 7/8. In EU terminology, that means sizes 60 through 63.

Note that this is not entirely new. When KASK first entered the equestrian scene, they did make these sizes in the Wide Brim helmets. However, due to lack of demand, they stopped producing these sizes soon after. With much persuasion from us, they have finally agreed to re-introduce these sizes.

We are quite excited about these larger sizes as we have had requests from customers. In fact, you can place your pre-orders for these new sizes in all the different models of the Dogma Star Lady Wide Brim helmet.

Conclusion

So this the recap for what is new and exciting from KASK for the upcoming/current season. Do you own a KASK Helmet? As always, we want to hear from you. Leave us a comment below. What do you like about your helmet? If not, do you have any questions? We love to help, so please do not hesitate to ask. Questions/comments are always welcome.

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2019: Our Annual Holiday Gift Giving Guide for Equestrians

KASK Equestrian Dogma Star Lady Pure Shine Chrome Wide Brim Helmet - Navy

As per our annual traditional for the holidays, we try to curate a list of about 10 (more or less) items that make excellent gifts for your equestrian friends and families. We are about 2 weeks late this year, but as they say, better late than never. We hope you will find some useful ideas for gift giving to the equestrian rider(s) in your life.

Horse Visor for Eye and Face Protection “eVysor” by eQuick

Horse Visor for Eye and Face Protection “eVysor” – We are super excited about this new product. The “eVysor” is a visor for your horse visor. It provides much needed protection for your horse from UV rays as well as dirt, footing etc. Just like us, our horses need protection. Think of these as Oakleys for your horse.

Equestrian Fitness Tool “Home Horse”

This product is not technically brand new for 2019, but its time for every serious equestrian to own one. Once you ride on the home horse, you will see why! We have one at our store and everyone loves it. Not only is it fun for non riders, it is extremely helpful for riders for developing the muscles critical for improving their horse riding skills.

We use it for a variety of functions, whether it is for customers trying out new show jackets and shads, or customers trying their new boots. It helps them to determine if the height of the jacket and boots is correct.

Tucci Classic Traditional Half Chaps “Everytime”

These chaps are made from soft Italian leather meant for every day use. What is best is that you do not need any special paddock boots. These are traditional half chaps, so they do not require a snap button or velcro for attachment to the paddock boots. So you can use them with your existing paddock boots, whether they are made by Tucci or any other manufacturer.

Made By Tucci in Italy, these are high quality chaps meant for comfort and durability.

Rein Rite : Training Aid for Muscle Building

This is a highly innovative product for this year. We have had a big demand for these training aids. A very easy way for muscle building for your horse.

Show Jumping Boots “Athena” by Secchiari

These are technically not new for 2019, but they continue to be our customers’ favorite riding boots. So comfortable, you can start riding in them right away. They strike the perfect balance between tradition and modern styling. BONUS: A new color called “Cotto” has been introduced for 2019. This has been a hot favorite ever since its introduction.

Winderen Knee Protect Solution Stirrups with Dual Shock Absorbers

By now, you have heard about the popular shock absorbing stirrups by Flex On. This year, we are pleased to introduce another innovative brand of stirrups: Winderen. These stirrups are traditional in design with a extra wide foot base. They are equipped with a dual shock absorbing system.

Winderen Back Comfort Solution Saddle Pad

Continuing in the vein of innovative and bold brands that are creating products that solve problems, the Winderen Back Comfort Solution Saddle Pad is a prime example. This half pad contains zipper pockets for adding/adjusting shims.

For Horses Ultra Light Girls Jods

We proudly present the top selling jods for girls. These bring all the things to jods that are common in women’s breeches: Quick Drying Light Weight Fabric, Italian Fit, Easy Care.

KASK Dogma Star Lady Pure Shine “Chrome” Wide Brim Ladies Helmet

Once again, KASK presents a beautiful and elegant helmet for show jumping. The KASK Dogma Star Lady Pure Shine “Chrome” Wide Brim Ladies Helmet sports a wider brim for better sun protection. Its glossy look makes it ideal for use for the day and night class.

KASK Dogma Star Lady “EveryRose” Carpet Amethyst Wide Brim Helmet (LIMITED EDITION)

The KASK Dogma Star Lady “EveryRose” Carpet Amethyst Wide Brim Helmet takes elegance to a totally new level. Arrive in style with this gorgeous and bling-packed helmet. The roe gold contrast against the navy backdrop makes this a unique helmet.

Conclusion

What do you think of this list? Do you own any of these products? Have Questions? Simply enter them in the comments below or feel free to Contact Us.

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Best Guide for Anatomic Bridles Explained – 2019 Edition

When it All Started

Anatomic bridles have started to become all the rage for both dressage and show jumping. Many companies have started on the trend of creating more comfortable bridles. Karin Bjarle – creator of PS of Sweden – launched one of the first anatomic bridles in 2011. Her idea was to create something that was beneficial to the horse. So she came up with an out of the box idea. Today I’ll be discussing two popular brands PS of Sweden and Schockemöhle.

Schockemoehle Sports Anatomic Dressage Snaffle Bridle - Malibu
Schockemoehle Sports Anatomic Dressage Snaffle Bridle – Malibu

PS of Sweden’s Idea

PS of Sweden bridles features a wider headpiece than the traditional bridle to distribute an even amount of pressure on the poll. It also has a deep cut for the ears so they can move freely without pinching or discomfort. A unique feature that the PS bridle has is Bit Cradles in the cheek pieces. It is a small piece of elastic that holds the bit suspended to give it a softer feel in the horse’s mouth. Karin’s ideas didn’t end there she went a step further and created a new browband. They now snap on and snap off for an easy change. No more pulling the bridle apart to change your bling!

Flying Change Dressage Bridle by PS Of Sweden in Black
Flying Change Dressage Bridle by PS Of Sweden in Black

Anatomic Bridles by PS of Sweden

PS of Sweden offers a variety of anatomic bridles for both show jumping and dressage. High Jump (pictured below) is one of their jumping snaffles. It has all of the common features of a PS bridle. The main difference is the noseband. This noseband has a deep contour along the cheek bones to avoid putting extensive pressure on the sensitive facial nerves. It also features a noseband and flash farther away from each other avoiding unneeded pressure on the upper jaw molar teeth. The bow (the pad that replaces the actual noseband) is adjustable to give each horse a uniquely perfect fit. PS offers a model similar to this called Jump Off. While the High Jump and the Jump Off can be used for dressage, a similar model specifically for dressage is available called Nirak. PS also offers multiple other options for both show jumping and dressage double and snaffles.

PS of Sweden High Jump Bridle in Black
PS of Sweden High Jump Bridle in Black

Schockemöhle’s Spin on Anatomic

Schockemöhle has created their own line of anatomic bridles bringing their spin on things. They created a new innovative scientific design by going a step further. They looked what’s under the skin of the face. This has helped them create a design works with the biological makeup of the horse. This has unveiled that where the traditional noseband lies unnecessary pressure is applied on the nervus fascicles and nervus trigeminus (shown in orange below). Pressure on these very sensitive nerves has been linked to pain in the face. Ultimately creating problems from the poll throughout the body since the Fascia (connective tissue) is all connected. The caveson also connects at a lower point allowing the circulation to run freely through the face. In addition, the flash sits in a sideways positioning allows the horse to breath better without restriction since it no longer sits on the nasal cavities. The headpiece is similar to the PS of Sweden, but they created their own take on it. Instead of having a wider headpiece with a deep ear cut they made it out of a softer more flexible leather with an anatomical shape. It also features cheek pieces attached to the noseband allowing for a more stable connection and small stimulation on the noseband enhancing the connection with the horse and rider. Overall, the difference to todays innovative technology compared to the older bridles brings new standards to our sport. Allowing us to give our horses maximized comfort.

Schockemöhle Equitus Gamma

Anatomic Bridles by Schockemöhle

Schockemöhle has multiple models for anatomical bridles. They have the Equitus collection (pictured above) which features three different snaffles. One is fleece lined with a flash, another is just a regular snaffle with flash, lastly a snaffle without the flash attachment. They also offer the Equitus in a double bridle. Schockemöhle also offers a more traditional looking anatomical bridle featuring a curved noseband and anatomic crown piece. They come in both jumping and dressage in snaffles and doubles.

Here we have a handy table comparing all the different dressage bridles that form part of the Schockemoehle Sports Anatomic collection:

Schockemoehle Sports Padded Fancy Stitched Hunter Bridle - Montreal in Espresso
Schockemoehle Sports Padded Fancy Stitched Hunter Bridle – Montreal in Espresso

Conclusion

Overall, anatomic bridles have been scientifically proven to benefit your horse. From avoiding sensitive pressure points and nerves to allowing better blood circulation. It’s hard to turn down the modern bridle especially when there are so many different options and styles. So, next time you’re in the market for a bridle and want something that will improve your horses performance think anatomic.

PS Of Sweden Anatomic Dressage Bridle "Nirak"
PS Of Sweden Anatomic Dressage Bridle “Nirak”
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Why You Should Choose Secchiari

History

The Secchiari boot company is a family owned business, which means their reputation and pride is represented in their company’s products.  In 1950, Stivaleria Secchiari was founded by Alfredo and Emilia Secchiari in Le Marche, Italy. With almost 70 years of experience, from 3 generations, they have mastered the art of boot making. Today, they still use the traditional marksmanship with the highest quality of leather. This makes Secchiari a top pick for equestrians around the world.

Logo Secchiari Italian Boots
Logo Secchiari Italian Boots

No. 1 Quality

Stivaleria Secchiari prides itself on the quality and durability of the leather that they use in their Italian boots. They hand pick out the leather they use in all the boots and accessories in Tuscany, Italy to ensure it’s to the highest of standards. Secchiari’s have a softer feel than most boots allowing you to keep close contact with your horse while being extremely durable. The soles of the boots and shoes are hand sewn and glued on. This makes the soles last longer compared to other companies which just use one method. The boots are more form fitting compared to others allowing for minimal “breaking in” time. They also have an elastic hidden along the zipper which gives the boot extra stretch for a perfect fit. These two features combined reduces the amount of wrinkles in the leather giving you a sleek, professional look. 

Secchiari Riding Field Boots with Laces Model 100 Classic
Secchiari Riding Field Boots with Laces Model 100 Classic

No. 2 Options

Secchiari has a variety of “off the shelf” options from short boots and chaps to dress boots. Some of the featured tall boot models that they offer include the Zues which is a men’s showjumping model featuring a fancy stitching on the front. They also have this model in womens, Athena. Another jumping boot they offer is their field boot with laces. Their most popular dressage model is Roma, which is a sleek design featuring the hidden elastic, a rigid leather on the outer part of the boot but a soft leather inside.  

The short boots and chaps that they offer are beautifully crafted to give you the look of a tall boot. The most popular short boots are similar in style to the Zues and Athena. With a fancy stitching design on the front with elastic on each side of the zippers, comfort, quality and durability are wrapped into one. They offer this short boot in both men’s and women’s. These short boots are designed with a snap on half chap made with soft and durable leather offering a reinforced inside. These half chaps and boots are made with the highest quality calfskin allowing for almost no break in time. They also offer the chaps and boots in a more simple and classic design. 

Secchiari Paddock Short Boots Grand Prix Elastic - Black
Secchiari Paddock Short Boots Grand Prix Elastic – Black

No. 3 Custom Orders

The options are endless when it comes to the customization of Secchiari boots. They offer an abundant amount of colors from patent to antique finish, with tons of ways to customize from the toe to the crown. Secchiari bootmakers will create your customized dream boots. One custom model offered is the Columbian Luxury Leather Top. This boot features your choice of boot color, toe and heel color and the option for front laces. Tack N Rider also provides customized measurements to have a boot that fits like a glove and looks anyway you’d like. The best part about a custom Secchiari boot is that it only takes 6 – 8 weeks for delivery. Compared to other companies which have a wait time of up to 6 months.

Secchiari Columbian Luxury Top Tall Boots - Brown with Brown Croc Top and Heel
Secchiari Columbian Luxury Top Tall Boots – Brown with Brown Croc Top and Heel

Conclusion

Overall, Stivaleria Secchiari is unique and elite. This traditional family owned company offers the best craftsmanship, quality, and versatility and it is at the forefront of bootmakers for equestrians around the globe. 

Secchiari Athena Black